An Overview of American Symbolism essays

An Overview of American Symbolism essays A symbol is something that stands for or suggests something else because of relationship, association, convention, or accidental resemblance. (Merriam Websters Collegiate Dictionary 1194). These emblematic masterpieces have been both created and destroyed by war. These wars have resulted in creating these numerous symbols of freedom. As America has evolved over time, the American flag, Star-Spangled Banner, Statue of Liberty, Bill of Rights, Constitution, and Liberty Bell has become the core of American symbols. The American flag was first designed by Francis Hopkinson and sewn by Betsy Ross, a seamstress of Philadelphia. The flag consisted of thirteen stripes and stars representing the thirteen colonies. The thirteen stars of the American flag were arranged in a circle to signify the unity and equality of the colonies. The red on the American flag is in representation of bravery, the blue is justice, and the white is liberty making this signify what our country will always stand for (Ryan 29-30). The flag epitomizes the rights, liberty, and democracy of the United States (The Pledge of Allegiance 11). The flag was first flown over schools in Colrain, Massachusetts, as early as 1812. Today, the flag was then the inspiration to the creation of the Star-Spangled Banner. The flag is flown in national and state parks, public buildings, sporting events, and ports of entry (The Pledge of Allegiance 7-9). When the flag is flow upside down, the sign of distress is known. Explorers place a flag where they land to show that someone from their country has been there. For example, on every Apollo mission to the moon the flag was placed at the landing site representing America. The flag is placed at half-staff when the need to honor someones death is arises (Ryan 2-5). Flags are on pins, shirts, parades, and homes for the symbolism of the patriotism of the United States (The Pledge of Allegiance 12)....